Real Impact stories spotlight the real difference that people, programs and partnerships – across the system – make on the state's economic, social and cultural well-being. For more, meet We Hear You.
The first in her family to graduate from college, Lura Buckley received her degree in marketing from the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) in 2018. She attributes her success to Chicago’s One Million Degrees (OMD), as well as the never-ending support of family, friends, mentors and educators.
They say her hard work is paying off.
“I see Lura as a self-motivated, determined young lady who will not stop pursuing her goals. While she’s focused on her career, she’s also very community oriented,” UIC Assistant Dean, Student Services Angela Prazza said. “As I have watched her career post-graduation, I am struck by just how much giving back is part of her life.”
University of Illinois System alumni like Buckley contribute to the economy and to society by working as well as volunteering, mentoring and supporting others. Their public university education instilled in them the desire to give back. The tenet of civic responsibility also shows up in social benefits from the system equaling $43.5 million for Illinois annually. The 2022 economic impact report shows that for every dollar society invested in the U of I System in fiscal year 2021, society will receive $4.40 in benefits from graduates who live and work in Illinois.
“Giving back is something that brings me happiness,” said Buckley, who recently started a new insurance industry job at HUB International. “Being able to give back and being able to make a difference really makes you feel good and want to do more.”
One Million Degrees
OMD – key in Buckley's life – provides wrap-around support to highly motivated community college students to help them succeed in school, in work and in life. From tutors and coaches to financial assistance and professional development, OMD offers support that empowers scholars to transform their lives and those around them for generations, the website says.
“OMD is like my second family. I loved that they helped us make lots of college connections. And I loved the tutors who always kept us on track,” said Buckley, who transferred to UIC from Harold Washington College, one of the City Colleges of Chicago. “The older students really helped us navigate everything. To this day, we’re still close-knit.
“I can call them any time I need them.”
In addition to doing community cleanups and making care packages for senior citizens, Buckley is now a mentor for students in OMD.
“I knew even when I was still a One Million Degrees Scholar that I wanted to be able to give back once I had completed the program and become more established,” Buckley said.
OMD’s former CEO says Buckley got everything she could out of the experience.
“She was the OMD Scholar who would show up to every single opportunity we offered to meet new people, to understand new environments, to challenge herself with new experiences,” said Paige Ponder, who now works at Discovery Partners Institute, part of the U of I System.
“Anyone who has the pleasure of meeting Lura will always be in her corner.”
Hard work and fun
Buckley’s favorite UIC educator remains a big fan.
“The things I remember most about Lura are her amazing work ethic, her energy and her willingness to participate in class discussions, and most of all, her desire to do good in the world with her business degree,” said William O’Brien, finance professor.
Driven as Buckley is, one of her favorite sayings suggests a smart balance.
“I like, ‘Don’t take life too seriously. Go with the flow.’ To me, that means do your best and still have fun,” she said. “I just got back from Peru, and I’m thinking ahead to my birthday to cross off more destinations on my travel list. Maybe Japan or Thailand.”
If it’s on Buckley’s to-do list, know she will do it.
“I have so many lists of all the things I want to do – baking, cooking, traveling, snorkeling, playing instruments,” she said. “I’m looking into volunteering at Big Brothers Big Sisters. I’d also love to sign up for more cleanups, food banks, and more mentorship opportunities around the city.”
The University of Illinois System’s impact through our alumni living, working and giving back is just part of what makes us Altogether Extraordinary.
